Associate Director, Strategic Advisory

Company Overview

J.S. Held is a global consulting firm providing financial, operational, investment banking, technical, scientific, and litigation support expertise across all industries and situations. Our professionals serve as trusted advisors to organizations facing high-stakes events and require urgent attention, integrity, clear analysis, and implementation expertise. We have over 100 locations worldwide and are committed to the community, employees, and clients, promoting a sense of community and aiming to exceed goals.

Turnaround and Restructuring Practice openings at the Associate Director level. The candidate will join an experienced team with deep experience in leading, planning, and solving complex client situations. The ideal VP/Director candidate will have 5–10 years of post-graduate experience in turnaround and restructuring roles and be located in the Chicago, IL area.

• Financial Analysis and Modeling: conduct detailed financial modeling, review large data sets, and develop projections to support turnaround strategies. Includes creating and maintaining complex financial models for cash flows, profitability, and liquidity; performing sensitivity analyses; evaluating statements for trends, risks, and opportunities; developing reports and presentations for stakeholders.
• Operational Restructuring: assess business plans, conduct due diligence, and develop/implement strategies for turnaround and profitability improvement; analyze processes to identify inefficiencies and opportunities for cost reduction; design and implement restructuring plans; collaborate with management to execute strategic initiatives; monitor progress and report alignment with goals.
• Transaction Management: lead mergers and acquisitions, restructuring, sales, and wind-down processes.
• Client and Network Development: expand and leverage referral networks and integrate the candidate’s network with the firm’s platform.
• Leadership and Presentation: lead presentations to referral sources and clients, demonstrating expertise and building trust.
• Travel: this position requires travel to clients, sometimes extensive.

• Strategic Thinking: intellectual curiosity and ability to align broader objectives with operational change to meet long-term goals.
• Attention to Detail: meticulous data analysis, solution identification, and implementation.
• Leaders in Change: ability to inspire and guide teams through change.
• Adaptability: thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
• 3+ years in a financial position with an accounting firm, financial consulting, or operating company.
• Strong understanding of financial modeling, valuation, data management, capital advisory services, and the M&A process, deal structuring and negotiation.
• Experience leading significant projects with minimal oversight and capabilities for turnaround, interim management (CEO/CFO/CRO), and due diligence assignments.
• Ability to develop and implement strategies to restore client performance; prior experience with Quality of Earnings and Chapter 11/DIP scenarios is a plus.
• Undergraduate degree in finance or related field; MBA or advanced degree preferred; CTP, CFE, or CIRA a plus.

• Typical work week of 45–50 hours; travel 50% or more most weeks.

All information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

• Flexible PTO (unlimited, subject to policies)
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 401k Match
• Commuter Benefits

A reasonable estimate of the salary range is $118,000 – $133,000; offered ranges are based on factors including skillset, experience, location, and responsibilities.

Equal Opportunity We are an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you require a reasonable accommodation, please email  and include “Applicant Accommodation” in the subject line.

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